M.S.

Notice 16 of 2002

Dated:August 6, 2002
No. NT/Unstructured/2000
Sub: Endorsement for change of command on Indian ships

Attention is invited to Section 37 under Part V of the Merchant Shipping Act 1958. The said section
directs that where the Master of an Indian ship is changed, the designated officer shall endorse and
sign on the certificate of registry a memorandum of the change.

In compliance of the above provision, on change of command, ships' Masters are expected to
approach office of the Registrar (Mercantile Marine Department) or any other authorized officer in India
or any other Consular officer abroad to have change of command endorsed on the Certificate of
Registry of the vessel.

The endorsement process requires physical presence of the Master in front of the designated official. In
view of the fast turn around of ships, development of various ports in remote locations and absence of
Registrar / Consular officer at small ports, it is not feasible for the Master to effect the endorsement
personally.

Being aware of the difficulties and keeping the provisions of the Act in mind, all concerned are advised
that henceforth there is no need for Master to be present in person to effect the changes. In lieu,
shipowner / shipmanager / operator may submit an application in duplicate for recording change of
Master, to the Registrar, where the ship was registered along with the prescribed fee of Rs.250. The
application may be forwarded by post or in person along with enclosures in accordance with
instructions given in the application form. Specimen copy of the application format is enclosed for
reference.

Upon receipt of the application form and the prescribed fee, the Registrar will record the change of
Master in the application at the prescribed place and return a copy of such endorsement to the
applicant. Such copy of endorsement should be forwarded to the vessel within one month from the date
of change of command and shall be attached to the Certificate of Registry as a proof of endorsement of
change of command.

This issues with the approval of Director General of Shipping.

Sd/-
(Capt. L.K.Panda)
Dy. Nautical Adviser to the Govt. of India